Caption: Map of UIUC (2001) (Allerton)
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CULTURAL LANDSCAPE TREATMENT PLAN ROBERT ALLERTON PARK, MONTICELLO, ILLINOIS DESCRIPTION This avenue forms a narrow, tree-lined connection between the Chinese Maze Garden on the east and the Sunken Garden on the west. Initially six pairs of columns lined the path and served as the major visual element, backed by first by Scotch pines and later by Canadian hemlocks. As the trees grew, the columns were removed circa 1925 giving the area a more naturalistic woodland character, which it retained until the Chinese Musicians were placed here in 1977. More recently, an ADA path was added north of the main path in 2000, as part of a larger project to make all the formal gardens accessible. The central portion of the garden was renovated in 2000, with new pea stone and plantings (hemlocks placed further back to allow room to grow and vinca in front) and cleaned sculptures and bases. Wire trellises have been added in the forest behind the space to serve as deer fencing. CHARACTER DEFINING FEATURES • Wide gently sloping central path, a continuation of the path that connects the other formal gardens. This is the only section of the central path to remain pea stone since paving was added to accommodate ADA in 2000. Path lined with high concrete curb/low retaining wall. Steps leading down from the Chinese Maze Garden at the eastern end. Narrow tree-lined space. Evergreens lining the path create a sense of darkness and mystery in contrast to the more open adjacent gardens. Deciduous woodland to north and south. Six pairs of tall columns with wire trellises between (until circa 1920s). Chinese Musicians (since 1977) - Ten are limestone originals purchased by Allerton in England, two are copies commissioned by Allerton. • • • ISSUES/RECOMMENDATIONS A major rehabilitation of this space was undertaken in 2000, which included improvements to the path, replanting of adjacent vegetation, and cleaning and recarving of Chinese Musicians and bases. The decision was made at that time to preserve the post-1977 appearance of the space rather than return to its appearance during Allerton’s tenure. All of the recommendations that follow are in the category of maintenance rather than capital projects. 8M1. Hemlocks As newly planted hemlocks grow towards Chinese Musicians they should be pruned back to prevent damage to sculptures. 8M2. Forested Areas at Outer Edges of Garden Remove deadwood and black locusts to create a more open woodland that is an appropriate backdrop to the garden. Keep vegetation pruned away from wooden wall to reduce moisture and to slow deterioration. 8M3. Chinese Musicians Sculptures and bases have recently been cleaned and sealed. Provide ongoing assessment and maintenance program for sculptures. III-66
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